Drea: I feel so small...Well, smaller.

Sam: How so?

Drea: I just got a package from Kohls. New shoes. But I had to send them back! The label says wide width but they don't fit.

Sam: Why so glum? They have a return policy, right?

Drea: Yes. It's just that my feet... the older I get? Bigger! (Heavy sigh)

Sam: It's disappointing, but I don't get why you feel so small.

Drea: It's... Kids in Tennessee who are TG can't get affirming healthcare and anyone who helps them is committing a felony.

Sam: That sucks, Miss Drea!

Drea: All across the country doctors testify before state legislatures about the necessity for care. The ideologues speak and misrepresent and even lie about the treatment. The kids and adults and even the doctors are ignored and these bills are passed.

Sam: That's downright wrong!

Drea: Trans folks are blamed and shamed while liars and even abusers are acclaimed.

Sam: I get that. But why do you feel small, Drea?

Drea: Because of those kids and even adults who are being mistreated! And worse? Because some people here and everywhere else are going through challenges and even heartache and I'm whining about a fucking pair of shoes. I feel so small. And I feel like things will never get better.

Sam: What did Gandalf say? We have to decide what to do with the time that's been given to us or something like that.

Drea: (Drea nods slowly, but looks away and sighs again.) Will it ever get better?